The below is a recent memo sent to local businesses and other developers in the area asking for the private sectors help in meeting the demands in housing and other commercial needs for the new military families arriving to our area. On top of this demand from the military, we are beginning to experience a tremendous need for quality/affordable housing for new arrivals to Eglin and other surrounding military bases because of the demolition of about 1700 homes at Eglin since last year.
Economic Development Council
of Okaloosa County, Florida
July 2, 2009
To: Business Presidents and CEOs
Re: Okaloosa County, Florida Unprecedented Growth
Dear Sir or Madam:
Okaloosa County is facing unprecedented growth within the next few years. The Congressional 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) identified Okaloosa County’s military installations for an increase of approximately 4,500 military personnel; with their families the total population influx will be 11,000 by 2016. The majority of this growth will saturate Okaloosa County within a six month period in 2011. This information is provided to assist you in your future planning; what you have seen is not what you will see. Army 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) 7SFG(A) – Estimated Personnel at Eglin AFB
Personnel Number
Total Daily 7SFG(A) Personnel 2,200
Spouses 1,452
Children 2,415
Total New Population to Area 6,067
Arrival time expected to be April-September 2011 predominately locating in the City of Crestview area.
Air Force Joint Strike Fighter Initial Training Center
JSF IJTS – Estimated Personnel at Eglin AFB
Personnel Number
Total Daily JSF Personnel 2,326
Spouses 1,163
Children 1,396
Total New Population to Area 4,885
Arrival time expected to be March 2010 through September 2016.
In addition to this BRAC related growth, and despite tough economic times, in comparison to other counties and states, Okaloosa County continues to sustain a strong economy supported by continual defense-related industrial growth. The incoming military families mentioned above will amplify this economy and support the continued and new presence of commercial and retail businesses such as yours. The Economic Development Council hopes that this information will assist you in your business planning needs. Additional information is available at www.florida-edc.org/defense.htm Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
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